Australia’s rising injury toll has meant head coach Eddie Jones has had to promote another rookie to his 22-man squad for Saturday’s Tri-Nations clash against South Africa at Perth’s Subiaco Oval.
Australia Under-21 and Brumbies outside back Adam Ashley-Cooper flew to Western Australia on Thursday to provide cover for the injured Mark Gerrard (hamstring).
A decision on the starting XV will not be made until after Friday’s training session.
Jones believes Ashley-Cooper is a talented young player who made the most of his limited opportunities in the Super 12 this season.
"Adam is a skilful young player who joined us earlier in the year at a Skills Day in Sydney and showed plenty of talent," Jones said.
"He gained some good experiences in the Super 12 this year and for the Australian Under-21s in Argentina.
"He is a strong runner and is physically equipped to play Test match rugby."
